A just launched online web portal, the Hong Kong Accredited Diamond Exchange (HKADE -- hkade.com.hk) purports to provide the first online peer-to-peer (P2P) global diamond marketplace in the industry. Started with the backing of renowned Hong Kong serial entrepreneur Shih Wing-Ching, the exchange has its own verification service and unique features that help investors with the support of non-physical settlement, according to an official press release.

Currently, the statement adds, investment potential of diamonds has not yet been fully realised, because of the lack of a well-established resale market. "There is a big gap between the retail price and resale price of diamonds because information about the diamond market is not always clear. But if we directly connect buyers and sellers through the Internet, this price gap can be greatly reduced," Shih said.

By solving this problem, HKADE will lead to an increase in the investment value, resale value and earnings potential and boost demand for diamonds across all markets.

Till now, physical diamond investment was largely possible only for gem experts or industry insiders. However, HKADE's secure storage service will help that to change.

HKADE provides rigorous verification of every traded diamond with the help of trained experts and GIA equipment. Each seller has an option to send the stone for verification before listing or after purchase. An index price also serves as a good online retail price reference. So even those without any background of gemmology can now shop with confidence.

Cherry Leong, co-founder of HKADE, explains, "Every diamond we store comes with a Safe Keeping Receipt (SKR), which can be instantly verified online as proof of asset ownership. SKRs not only include all verification data of the stone, but also feature a 360-degree video of the diamond, serving as a photo ID. As long as the stone is kept in our custody, users can trade in SKRs more quickly and seamlessly. It is just as easy as trading in gold!"

With the launch of this new online service, the disintermediation benefits of peer-to-peer platforms, like Airbnb and Taobao (Alibaba), have now been introduced in the diamond and jewellery industry, the statement adds.

HKADE has announced that it is presently accepting white diamonds at a minimum size of 0.85 carat with GIA/AGS reports.